Apple TV+’s Foundation is one of the most expensive shows on streaming — and it has more than earned every penny.
The sci-fi series costs $10 million per episode and is based on Isaac Asimov’s legendary book series, which is widely considered one of the greatest sci-fi stories ever written. After years stuck in development hell, it finally arrived on Apple TV+ in 2021 and has now run for three near-perfect seasons.
The show spans thousands of years and follows a galactic empire on the brink of collapse. Genius mathematician Hari Seldon, played by Jared Harris, can’t stop humanity’s downfall — but he tries to limit the damage. Standing in his way is a powerful dynasty ruled by a trio of clones and an immortal robot empress.
It sounds complicated, but the show does a good job of bringing viewers up to speed without dumbing things down. The political scheming, power struggles, and morally grey characters give it the feel of a space-age Game of Thrones.
The visuals match the ambition. The CGI and set design are blockbuster-level, showing off alien worlds, flooded civilisations, and vast star systems. Nothing feels wasteful — every visual serves the story.
Critics have loved it. The show has grown its audience with each season and is now considered one of the best sci-fi series on any streaming platform.
A third season is already in the works, and the show continues to build on Asimov’s ideas around politics, religion, identity, and what it means to try and save a civilisation that’s already decided to destroy itself.
